Some Thoughts on Floss Coverage in Cross Stitch

I’ll admit this is something I never really think about, but do you use different numbers of strands of floss in different projects or different parts of a project? Unless the pattern says otherwise, I default to two strands, but that might not always be the best look, as Better Cross Stitch Patterns explains.

It all depends on the look you want for your project, of course, but it makes sense that different numbers of strands create more or less coverage of the fabric beneath.

So if you really want your design filled in, you might need to use three strands, or if you’re going for an open look, one strand might be enough.

Click over to the post for bigger images and more examples, including how coverage changes when you use colored cloth.

Is this something you’ve thought about or do you tend to stitch the same regardless? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

[Photo: Better Cross Stitch Patterns.]

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How Much Embroidery Floss Should You Use?

If you’re a fan of detailed and colorful cross stitch patterns, Design for Cross Stitch might have a pattern you want to try. This Etsy shop is based in Spain and has more than 50 designs with a focus on animals, holidays and landscapes.

I’m just going to start with the first pattern that caught my eye when I visited the site, which is this Sakura by the Lake project. This pattern is 200 by 200 stitches and the whole background is stitched, so it’s definitely not for a beginner, but it’s stunning and would be amazing to make for someone who loves Japan. Despite the detail it only uses 24 colors. Worked on 14 count fabric it will measure 14.64 inches, or 37.19 cm.

There are a few other landscape designs, including a canal in Venice and a few cabins in the woods.

The shop also has some cute animal cross stitch, with big, round faces and often holding a warm beverage. Holiday projects focus on Christmas and Halloween. Most of the patterns have a cute, chibi-like feel, but there are some that are more detailed and realistic as well. Take for examples the flower patterns, which are full of details and soft colors.

You’ll also find some fun bookmark cross stitch patterns with a watercolor feel, as well as some that look kind of like paint pouring turned into stitches.

If this sort of stuff sounds like fun to you, check out their Etsy store at Design for Cross Stitch.

Do you have a favorite cross stitch designer who I haven’t featured yet? Let me know in the comments or share more about them by clicking on “suggest a DIY” at the center top of the page and let me know the details. I’d love to share the designers you’re enjoying with a wider audience.

[Photo: Design for Cross Stitch]

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